Black Stars Team Manager Ameenu Shardow has commended the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for initiating a testimonial match for football legend Asamoah Gyan, adding that it’s long overdue.

The country’s football governing body announced the decision to honour the former Ghana captain on Tuesday, November 4.

The GFA says the event will celebrate Gyan’s remarkable contribution to Ghanaian football, with full details to be announced soon.

Gyan, who retired in 2023 at age 37, remains Ghana’s all-time top scorer with 51 goals in 109 appearances.

Reacting to the news, Shardow lauded the GFA for the initiative.

“It’s extremely important because, aside the fact that we are using it to honour a distinguished personality, somebody who has given everything for this nation, this also serves as a sign of a nation that appreciates its heroes,” Shardow told Joy Sports.

“It encourages other players to also give their best because they know, at the end of the day, they will be well appreciated.

“So, for me, this is long overdue. I’m very happy that finally, the GFA is taking the lead in getting these things done and not leaving them in the hands of private individuals.”

Gyan has been working in non-official roles with the Black Stars, complementing the efforts of former teammate Stephen Appiah, who serves as deputy chair of the Management Committee.

The two were often around the team, offering advice and motivation during the recent World Cup qualifying campaign.